Vietnam’s Best International High Schools

Vietnam has become a hub for high-quality international education, with many institutions offering world-class curricula and preparing students for global opportunities. This article explores the top international high schools in Vietnam, their offerings, and why they stand out.

1. Introduction to International Education in Vietnam

As Vietnam's economy continues to grow, so does the demand for international education. Parents seek schools that provide a globally recognized curriculum, excellent faculty, modern facilities, and a multicultural environment. These schools cater to both expatriate families and Vietnamese students who aspire to study abroad.

2. Criteria for Selecting the Best International High Schools

To evaluate Vietnam's top international high schools, we consider:

Accreditation and Curriculum: Schools must be accredited by recognized bodies such as the IB (International Baccalaureate), Cambridge, or American accreditation boards.
Academic Excellence: High academic standards, university acceptances, and student achievements.
Facilities and Extracurricular Activities: State-of-the-art facilities and diverse extracurricular options for holistic development.
Faculty and Staff: Experienced and highly qualified teachers.
Diversity and Inclusion: A multicultural student body and inclusive policies.

3. Top International High Schools in Vietnam

1. International School Ho Chi Minh City (ISHCMC)

Location: Ho Chi Minh City
Curriculum: IB (PYP, MYP, DP)
Highlights: ISHCMC is the first IB school in Vietnam and offers a comprehensive, inquiry-based learning approach. It boasts cutting-edge facilities, strong university placement records, and a focus on innovation and student well-being.

2. British International School (BIS) Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh City

Location: Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh City
Curriculum: British (IGCSE, A-Levels)
Highlights: BIS is one of Vietnam’s most prestigious international schools, offering a UK-based education with a strong emphasis on academics and extracurriculars. It is part of the Nord Anglia Education group, ensuring high global standards.

3. Saigon South International School (SSIS)

Location: Ho Chi Minh City
Curriculum: American (AP, IB DP option)
Highlights: SSIS follows an American curriculum with a focus on character development, leadership, and innovation. It has an excellent track record of university placements, especially in the US and Canada.

4. United Nations International School Hanoi (UNIS Hanoi)

Location: Hanoi
Curriculum: IB (PYP, MYP, DP)
Highlights: As one of the few UN-affiliated schools worldwide, UNIS Hanoi emphasizes global citizenship, sustainability, and community service. It has a strong reputation for academic excellence and extracurricular activities.

5. Australian International School (AIS Vietnam)

Location: Ho Chi Minh City
Curriculum: IB, Australian (Victorian Certificate of Education)
Highlights: AIS provides an Australian-based curriculum with options for the IB Diploma. It is known for its arts, sports, and modern facilities.

6. The American School (TAS)

Location: Ho Chi Minh City
Curriculum: American (AP, College Prep)
Highlights: TAS is a top-tier American curriculum school with strong emphasis on college preparation, offering Advanced Placement (AP) courses and a well-rounded extracurricular program.

7. European International School (EIS)

Location: Ho Chi Minh City
Curriculum: IB (PYP, MYP, DP)
Highlights: EIS provides a boutique learning environment with small class sizes and personalized education. It follows the IB curriculum and has a strong European cultural influence.

8. Singapore International School (SIS)

Location: Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and other cities
Curriculum: Singaporean, Cambridge IGCSE, A-Levels
Highlights: SIS offers a rigorous academic program, blending the Singaporean education model with Cambridge assessments, making it a preferred choice for families focused on STEM education.

9. Renaissance International School Saigon

Location: Ho Chi Minh City
Curriculum: British (IGCSE, A-Levels)
Highlights: Renaissance provides a British-style education in a close-knit, community-driven environment. It offers outstanding music and arts programs.

10. Canadian International School (CIS)

Location: Ho Chi Minh City
Curriculum: Canadian (Ontario Secondary School Diploma - OSSD)
Highlights: CIS follows the Ontario curriculum, preparing students for universities in Canada and beyond. It emphasizes innovation, leadership, and global perspectives.

4. Why Choose an International School in Vietnam?

a. Global Curriculum and University Pathways

International high schools offer globally recognized curricula that facilitate admission to top universities worldwide.

b. Multicultural Learning Environment

Students benefit from a diverse, multicultural environment that enhances social and communication skills.

c. Modern Facilities and Holistic Development

Top schools invest in modern campuses, technology, sports, and arts facilities to foster well-rounded development.

d. English Proficiency and Critical Thinking

International education emphasizes English fluency and critical thinking, essential skills for global careers.

5. Admission Process and Tuition Fees

Admission Requirements

Entrance exams in English and Math
Interview with school representatives
Previous school transcripts and recommendation letters

Tuition Fees

Fees range from $15,000 to $35,000 per year, depending on the school and grade level.
Additional costs include uniforms, extracurriculars, and international trips.

6. Conclusion

Vietnam’s international high schools offer world-class education, preparing students for success in global universities and careers. Whether you seek an IB, British, American, or Canadian curriculum, there are outstanding options in both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Choosing the right school depends on academic preferences, budget, and future goals. Parents should visit campuses, talk to faculty, and consider their child's learning style before making a decision.

For expatriates and Vietnamese families alike, these schools provide an excellent foundation for academic excellence and personal growth.